I do a lot of listening and observing. We work with nonprofit organizations on a daily basis through our libraries, classes, and customer service inquiries, and so we hear a lot of feedback about working with funders. Another time, I'll send you a list of frustrations, but today, I thought I'd highlight some key practices that make nonprofits – including our own Foundation Center development team – smile. (Hint: it's almost always the little things.)

  • Transparency. Any time funders share what’s expected in an application clearly, it’s appreciated.
  • Connection. Nonprofits always hear that funding is “about the relationship,” but starting to build that relationship can be hard.
  • Appreciation. Funders who pause to thank or otherwise acknowledge organizations really make a lasting impression that ultimately benefits everyone.
  • Feedback. After a grant check is cut, the next interaction a nonprofit might have with a funder is their grant report a year later. However, when a funder checks in during the year – perhaps around key organizational or project milestones – it shows that they are paying attention…and care.
  • “Shortcuts." Time is always of the essence; any time-saver that a foundation offers is always appreciated.

Read the full article about good grantmaking practices by Jen Boookoff at Grantcraft.